FORT WORTH, February 27, 2024 — The American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association - the leading voluntary health organization focused on heart and brain health for all - invites Tarrant County companies, communities and individuals to stop the cycle of stroke by raising critical funds to further research and education through the annual CycleNation campaign.

“I’m passionate about advocacy, education and increasing access to optimal brain and heart health for everyone. The CycleNation platform broadens our impact to help people live their lives to the fullest. I’m excited to join forces with community partners in raising awareness and funds for this critical cause,” says Stephanie Old who has been named chairperson of this year’s event.

Old, who is the Encompass Health Business Development Director, values the importance of healthy lifestyles to reduce stroke risk and she has more than 23 years of first-hand experience in stroke treatment and rehabilitation. She is a wonderful fit to lead the CycleNation initiative and is pleased to serve alongside honorary chair, Mayor Ross of Arlington.

“Healthy communities are strong communities. The City of Arlington is excited to welcome the American Heart Association’s CycleNation event to our entertainment district. It’s wonderful to see Tarrant County businesses come together for an important cause,” says Mayor Ross.

Ross & Old will lead a team of top Tarrant County executives that will work to recruit companies and organizations to take part in the CycleNation movement. The efforts culminate on April 18th, 2024, at Live! by Loews in Arlington from 4-7 pm. During the event teams of 4-6 will each have one of dozens of stationary bikes and take turns cycling to raise awareness and funds to further the work of the American Stroke Association and the American Heart Association. 

“What’s exciting about the CycleNation movement is, it’s not just a one-day event” said Old, “Participating companies and organizations become part of something bigger. We’re making a significant impact on the overall health of our community through our fundraising efforts and this initiative is designed to improve employee engagement, wellness and overall workplace health”.

Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States and the leading cause of disability in older age. Each year approximately 800,000 people in the U.S. have a stroke. While approximately 80% of those who have a stroke will survive, the majority of these will remain with some degree of physical impairment or disability. Research shows that up to 80% of strokes may be prevented. Getting the recommended amount of physical activity is linked to lower risk of diseases, stronger bones and muscles, improved mental health and cognitive function and lower risk of depression.

For more information about Tarrant County CycleNation campaign or to get your company involved, click here or contact the Heart Challenge Director at jennifer.swofford@heart.org.

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About the American Stroke Association

The American Stroke Association is a relentless force for a world with fewer strokes and longer, healthier lives. We team with millions of volunteers and donors to ensure equitable health and stroke care in all communities. We work to prevent, treat and beat stroke by funding innovative research, fighting for the public’s health, and providing lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based association was created in 1998 as a division of the American Heart Association. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-888-4STROKE or visit stroke.org. Follow us on Facebook and X.

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.orgFacebookX or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

For Media Inquiries:

Jennifer Swofford, Development Director, Heart Challenge, jennifer.swofford@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org